If you are looking to sing the praises of a young person who either lives in Oak Bay or attends school there, take that to the next step and nominate them for an award.
The District of Oak Bay is accepting nominations for the sixth annual Young Exceptional Star awards, which not only celebrate youth making a difference in their community but also those who have overcome obstacles.
To be eligible, youth must be in Grade 6 to 10 in public, private or home schools, or live in Oak Bay.
They must demonstrate excellence in arts, volunteerism, academics, athletics, community service and citizenship or have overcome challenges in their lives.
“It’s a way for us to connect with all the different schools and recognize youth that do so much in the community,” said Coun. Michelle Kirby, chair of the Oak Bay Child and Youth Committee. “We have some incredible volunteers that haven’t even graduated high school.
“They’re setting a wonderful example for the rest of us.”
The nomination deadline is March 31. The awards ceremony happens on May 2 at the Oak Bay Recreation Centre’s Sports View Deli Bar and Grill.
Changes are in store for this year’s ceremony. A banquet dinner will be replaced with a format that encourages more interaction among community and business leaders and talented youth.
“We’re just going to give people the ability to mingle and meet more of the kids,” Kirby said.
Nomination forms are available here.
Businesses interested in sponsoring an award can email Coun. Michelle Kirby at michelle@michellekirby.ca by March 31.